ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) – A group of tough, rigid thermoplastics derived from the reaction of
acrylonitrile, styrene, and butadiene gas. These materials are polymerized together in a variety of ratios to
produce ABS resins.

Accelerator – A highly active oxidizing material suspended in a liquid carrier used to accelerate the
decomposition of peroxide catalysts into highly reactive free radicals. These free radicals react readily with
polymer and monomer molecules to cure a thermoset resin. Examples are diethylaniline, dimethylaniline,
cobalt naphthanate, and cobalt octoate. A cleaning fluid used to remove uncured plastic resin from brushes
and clothing.

Air-Inhibited Resin – A resin in which surface cure will be inhibited or stopped by the presence of air.

BMC (Bulk Molding Compound) – A combination of resin paste and chopped glass combined with a “sigma”
blade mixer under conditions of very high mechanical “working” stress. The compound is delivered to the
press in the form of a ball, slab or an extruded log and dropped into the bottom of a mold; the material is
flowed outward until it assumes the shape of the mold.

Catalyst – A substance (usually a peroxide) which readily forms free-radicals. These free radicals react with
polymer and monomer molecules to speed up the curing of thermoset resins. Catalyst content can vary from
0.2% to 2.0% with higher catalyst levels giving faster cure times. Examples are methyl ethyl ketone peroxide
and benzoyl peroxide.

Color Pigments – Ground coloring materials supported in a thick liquid. Added to the resin, they give it color.

Crazing – Hairline cracks either within or on the surface of a laminate, caused by stresses generated during
cure, removal from a mold, impact or flexing.

Crosslinking – Chain-reaction polymerization which results in chemical links (bonds) between individual
polymer chains. This occurs in all thermosetting resins. Styrene monomer and methyl methacrylate monomer
are the most common crosslinking agents used in polyester resins.

Cure – The total crosslinking or polymerization of resin molecules which permanently alters the properties of
the resin changing it from a liquid to a solid.

Cure Time – The time required for the liquid resin to reach a cured or fully polymerized state after the catalyst
has been added.

Delamination – Failure of internal bending between layers of the laminate.

Dimensional Stability – Ability to retain constant shape and size under various environmental conditions,
such as temperature and humidity.

End – As applied to fibrous reinforcements, a bundle of essentially parallel (i.e., entwined) fibers, usually
glass.

Exotherm Curve – A graph of temperature plotted against time during the curing cycle. Peak exotherm is the
highest temperature reached during the curing reaction.

Exothermic Heat – Heat given off during a polymerization reaction by the chemical ingredients as they react
and the resin cures.

FBVF (Fiberglass Backed Vacuum Forming) – Combining a thermoformed thermoplastic sheet with a
fiberglass mat or roving using the spray-up or hand lay-up process.

Filament – A single, hair-like fiber of glass characterized by extreme length, which permits its use in yarn with
little or no twist and usually without the required spinning operation.

Fill or Sanding Resin – A general purpose polyester resin used to soak and fill reinforcing material in the
initial lay-up of a surfacing application; usually contains wax.

Fillers – Any one of a number of inexpensive substances which are added to plastic resins to extend volume,
improve properties and lower the cost of the article being produced. Examples are calcium carbonate, alumina
trihydrate, feldspar, and calcium sulfate.

Fire Retardancy – Reduction in the ability of a plastic to ignite and burn. This is accomplished by using
compounds (resins or additives) that contain halogens (bromine or chlorine) or phosphorous. Usually alumina
trihydrate filler is also used because of its ability to release water when exposed to high heat.

Foams, Urethane – Polyurethane resins are produced by reacting diisocyanates with polyols to form polymers
having free isocyanate groups. These groups, under the influence of heat or certain catalysts, will react with
each other, or with water, glycols, etc., to form a foam.

Foams, Flexible – A thermoplastic urethane foam which is adaptable and often used for cushioning in the
furniture and automotive industries.

Foams, Rigid – A thermoset urethane foam which has a higher density, higher modulus, and harder surface
than flexible urethane foams.

Gel – A partial cure of plastic resins; a semi-solid, jelly-like state similar to gelatin in consistency.

Gelcoat – A thin surface coat, either colored or clear, of non-reinforced plastic resin. It is occasionally used for
decorative purposes but also provides a protective coating for the underlying laminate.
Gel Time – Time required to change a flowable liquid resin into a non-flowing gel.

HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) – A thermoplastic material composed of polymers of ethylene. It has
relatively high rigidity and can be modified, e.g. with isoprene, to have high impact strength.

Hand Lay-Up – The oldest and simplest molding technique in which reinforcing materials and catalyzed resin
are laid into or over a mold by hand. These materials are then compressed with a roller to eliminate entrapped
air.

Hardener – See catalyst.

Inhibitor – A substance that retards polymerization, thus extending the shelf life of polymers and monomers.
Also used to extend the gel time and cure time of a thermoset resin.

Laminate – A material composed of successive layers of resin and fiberglass bonded together.

Lamination – The compilation of layers of glass matte and resin, and eventual bonding of these layers
together.

Fiberglass Mat – A flat, coarse fabric composed of glass fibers. There are three types: chopped-strand mat,
continuous strand mat, and surfacing veil.

Monomer – A single molecule capable of polymerizing.

Non-Air-Inhibited Resin – A polyester resin using phthalic anhydride as the starting point. A surfacing agent
is added to exclude air from the surface of the resin.

Orthophthalic Resin – A polyester resin using phthalic anhydride as the starting point. Most thermoset
polyester resins use two types of anhydrides in their production: phthalic anhydride and maleic anhydride. A
higher percentage of phthalic anhydride yields a less reactive resin.

PE (Polyethylene) – A thermoplastic material composed of polymers from ethylene. It is normally a
translucent, tough, waxy solid which is unaffected by water or by a large range of chemicals.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – A thermoplastic material composed of copolymers of vinyl chloride. A colorless
solid resistant to water, concentrated acids and alkalis.

Polyester Resin – The term generally used for unsaturated polyesters. Formed by the reaction of a dibasic
organic acid or anhydride and a polyhydric alcohol to form a series of ester linkages.

Polymer – The end product, usually a solid, produced from monomers.

Porosity – The formation of undesirable clusters of air bubbles in the surface or body of the laminate.

Pot Life – The length of time that a catalyzed resin remains workable.

Preform Fiber – Glass formed over a screen shaped like the mold in which the preform will be used. It
eliminates the need for over-lapping or mitering the corners in molding. Used primarily to form deep draws or
complex parts.

Prepreg – Glass roving or cloth loaded with B-stage resin, catalyst, and pigment ready for placement in a
mold.

Promoter – See accelerator.

Release Agent – A lubricant, often wax, is used to prevent the adhesion of the molded part to the mold. An
internal lubricant such as zinc stearate is used in high temperature molding to obtain release where wax would
melt or be absorbed.

Resin – A liquid plastic substance used as a matrix for glass fibers. It is cured by crosslinking.

Roving – Continuous strands of glass fibers which are grouped together and wound on a tube like untwisted
yarn.

Shelf Life – The length of time a non-catalyzed resin maintains specified working properties while stored in a
tightly sealed opaque container.

Sizing – The treatment applied to the glass fiber to allow the plastic resins to flow freely around and bond to
them.

SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) – An integrated, ready-to-mold fiberglass reinforced polyester material. The compound is composed of a filled thermosetting resin and a chopped or continuous strand reinforcement.  The primary use is in matched die molding.

Spray-Up – Covers a number of techniques in which a spray gun is used to simultaneously deposit fiberglass
and catalyzed resin on a mold.

Stage (of Resin) – The condition of a partially cured resin polymer when it is only partially soluble in monomer
or acetone but still plastic and still heat fusible.

Staple Fiber – A glass fiber of short length formed by blowing molten glass through holes.

Styrene Monomer – A water-thin liquid monomer used to thin polyester resins and act as the crosslinking
agent.

Substrate – Any material which provides a support surface for other materials.

Tack – The stickiness of an adhesive measurable as the force required to separate an adherent from it by
viscous or plastic flow of the adhesion.

Thermoplastic – A plastic material that can be readily softened and reformed by heating and be re-hardened
by cooling.

Thermoset – A plastic material that will undergo or has undergone a chemical reaction caused by heat,
catalyst, ultraviolet light, etc., leading to the formation of a solid. Once it becomes a solid, it cannot be
reformed.

Thickeners – Material added to the resin to thicken it so that it will not flow as readily.

Thinners – Material added to plastic resins to thin it. They may also be crosslinking agents.

Thixotropic – The property of becoming a gel at rest, but liquefying again on agitation.

Viscosity – A measure of the resistance of liquid to flow.

Wet-out –The ability of a resin to saturate fiberglass reinforcement.

Yarn – A twisted strand or strands of glass fibers which can be woven, braided, served, and processed.

Falling dart impact, also known as Gardner impact, is a traditional method for evaluating the impact strength or
toughness of a plastic material. The test is often used to specify appropriate materials for applications involving impact
or to evaluate the effect of secondary finishing operations or other environmental factors on plastic impact properties.

The test sample rests on a base plate over an opening of specified diameter. An “impactor” sits on top of the test
sample with a nose of specified radius in contact with the center of the test sample. A weight is raised inside a guide
tube to a predetermined height, then released to drop onto the top of the impactor, forcing the nose through the test
sample. The drop height, drop weight, and the test result (pass / fail) are recorded.

The most common method to analyze this data is called the “Bruceton Staircase” method. A number of samples are
used to bracket the pass/fail energy level. Then a series of 20 impacts are conducted. If a test sample passes, the
drop height is increased by one unit. If a test sample fails, the drop height is decreased by one unit. The results from
the 20 impacts are used to calculate the Mean Failure Height the point at which 50% of the test samples will fail under
the impact.

FRP, fiberglass reinforced plastic, is a composite made from fiberglass reinforcement in a plastic (polymer) matrix. A construction analogy would be the steel reinforcing bars in a concrete matrix for highways.

By reinforcing the plastic matrix, a wide variety of physical strengths and properties can be designed into the FRP composite. Additionally, the type and configuration of the reinforcement can be selected, along with the type of plastic and additives within the matrix. These variations allow an incredible range of strength and physical properties to be obtained. FRP composites can be developed specifically for the performance required versus traditional materials: wood, metal, ceramics, etc.

Engineers can design the FRP composite to provide the needed characteristics, and avoid cost penalties of an over-engineered product.

What is Fiberglass?

Fiberglass fibers are made from molten glass extruded at a specified diameter. The fibers are gathered into bundles and the bundles combined create a roving. Rovings are a continuous rope, similar to twine, and are wound on a mandrel to form a ball called a doff. Reinforcements for FRP are made from rovings that are chopped into short strands, woven into a cloth or used as continuous roving.

There are many factors that affect the reinforcement characteristics of fiberglass:

1. Fiber and bundle diameter and type of glass
2. Direction of the fiberglass reinforcement
3. The amount of fiberglass reinforcement
4. The physical contact (wetout) of the fiber with the polymer

All of these factors must be taken into account when designing an FRP composite so that the required physical property strengths are met.

What are Plastic/Polymers?

There are two basic types of plastics/polymers: thermoplastic and thermoset. In general, FRP composites utilize a thermoset plastic.

A plastic in which the polymer molecules are not crosslinked (not chemically bonded to other polymer molecules) is a thermoplastic. Since the molecules are not connected by crosslinks, it allows the molecules to spread farther apart when the plastic is heated. This is the basic characteristic of a thermoplastic; the plastic will soften, melt, or flow when heat is applied. Melting the plastic and allowing it to cool within a mold will form the finished product. Typical thermoplastics are: polyethylene (PE)– used in making garbage bags; polyvinyl chloride (PVC)– used for house siding; and polypropylene (PP)– used as carpet fibers, packaging, and diapers.

A plastic in which the polymer molecules are crosslinked (chemically bonded) with another set of molecules to form a “net like” or “ladder-like” structure is a thermoset. Once crosslinking has occurred, a thermoset plastic does not soften, melt, or flow when heated. However, if the crosslinking occurs within a mold, the shape of the mold will be formed. Typical thermoset plastics are: unsaturated polyester (UP)– used for bowling balls and boats; epoxy– used for adhesives and coatings; and polyurethanes (PURs)– used in foams and coatings.

In addition to these basic characteristics, polymers provide the FRP composite designer with a myriad of characteristics that can be selected, depending on the application. Combined with reinforcement of the polymer matrix, a vast range of characteristics are available for FRP composites.

Thanks to the exclusive Surfaseal finish, Glasbord is the perfect solution for applications requiring cleanability, low particle emission, biological resistance and chemical resistance.

Glasbord is the industry leading fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) panel. The homogeneously applied Surfaseal finish means that the surface is sealed and will
not trap soil or bacteria.

The system features Crane Composites’ Glasbord panel. The Glasbord panels are available with a Class A or Class C fire rating per ASTM E-84 with a smooth or embossed finish. The Glasbord FSFM panel has been tested and certified by independent third parties. The cleanroom certified FRP wall panels are completed with the use of biological and chemically tested adhesive and seam sealant for wall panel applications and trim-free seams.

Applications

Biotechnology | Pharmacy | Medical Devices | Hospitals | Pharmaceuticals

Since 1954  GLASBORD FRP protected by Surfaseal has been the industry standard for FRP wall  and ceiling panels. Surfaseal provides extra protection against mold, mildew  and stains. Durable, cleanable, easy to install GLASBORD is the panel your  project demands backed by the service you deserve.

Surfaseal is a protective fnish that makes GLASBORD easier to clean and up 6 times more stain resistant than other FRP panels. This unique finish ensures GLASBORD wall and ceiling panels will stand up to harsh conditions while maintaining a clean and sanitary surface.

CFIA Accepted

Mitigating risks to food safety is the CFIA’s highest priority, and the health and safety of Canadians is the driving force behind the design and development of CFIA programs. The CFIA, in collaboration and partnership with industry, consumers, and federal, provincial and  municipal organizations, continues to work towards protecting Canadians  from preventable health risks related to food and zoonotic diseases. As an accepted sanitary product, Kemlite Glasbord FRP provides peace of mind for you, your organization and customer confidence.

FM Approved

Fire-X GLASBORD FM FRP is the only fiberglass reinforced interior wall panel that is accepted under Factory Mutual Research Approved FRP, Class 1 Interior Finish Material in accordance with Factory Mutual Research Approval Standard 4880.

Frontside Identification

Only GLASBORD FRP panels can be identifed before installation by colored threads on the back. After installation, GLASBORD FRP can be identifed by a Translucent Plastic Thread with Fluorescent Pigment Design® embedded in the front of the panel and visible by black fuorescent lighting.

Applications

• Food Processing Plants
• Commercial Kitchens
• Restaurants
• Restrooms
• Convenience Stores
• Locker Rooms

Benefits

• Mold & Mildew Resistant
• Available in FM Approved
• Meets CFIA Requirements
• Easy to Install
• Cleanable
• Chemical Resistant
• Durable

The three most important overall elements of any food processing and handling facility is that it should be cleanable, and so designed and constructed that it prevents entrance or harborage of pests, growth of bacteria or other sources of contamination.

Food processing facilities should have floors, walls, and ceilings constructed of suitable, approved materials which are durable, smooth, impervious and easily cleaned. Walls should be light colored and well-joined, and floors should be adequately sloped for drainage to trapped outlets. Openings to outside and/or non-food-processing or  -handling rooms or facilities must be sealed. Doors must be tight and close-fitting. And doors in food-processing areas self-closing.

Scholar Plastics has you covered!

With Kemlite Glasbord FRP wall panels and SaniGrid FRP ceiling systems, Scholar Plastics provides the needed building products to assist you in keeping it clean.

Kemlite FRP and SaniGrid FRP ceiling systems are Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) accepted and your best choice for ensuring a cleanable environment for your food processing environment.

Scholar Plastics stocks both Class ‘C’ and Class ‘A’ fire rated FRP panels for walls and ceilings. We also have all the accessories to complete the job, including PVC moldings, adhesives and sealants.

Contact Scholar Plastics today for all your cleanable FRP requirements.

Crane Composites played an important part in the $52 M renovation at the University of Michigan’s Crisler Center, home to men’s and women’s Wolverine basketball, as well as host to numerous wrestling and gymnastics events annually. Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) wall panels were needed in ten concession areas and five trash nooks. The University wanted to utilize images of various athletic events printed in the iconic Michigan blue.  A durable, functional, long lasting custom option was needed.  Fortunately, Crane Composites had the perfect solution for this project — DESIGNS 4U. This highly customizable FRP panel is an innovative product that allows for virtually endless design possibilities.

Contact Scholar Plastics for more information about custom FRP panels for use in your facilities.

DESIGNS, an upscale, stylish line of FRP wall panel has been changing our industry for over a year, and is now available in Canada. Scholar Plastics is excited about the design possibilities this product brings to the Canadian market.

Choose from over 20 standard patterns including wood grains, stone & natural looks, as well as canvas and weave patterns. If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, check out DESIGNS 4UTM ! Work with the experts at Scholar Plastics to create a panel that is EXACTLY what you envisioned for your project. Your custom design, logo, or image can now be transformed into a durable, cleanable and easy to install FRP wall panel.

DESIGNS is setting the industry standard for FRP even higher by combining the performance of FRP with style, and eye-catching patterns. These panels are available with complementary trims that give each and every installation a unique and finished look. Customized moldings are also available.

Contact your Scholar Plastics Sales Rep for more information and pricing here in Canada. Send an email to sales@scholarplastics.ca or call the Toll free Phone number 866-248-0737.